Tag Archives: in the sky

In the sky: Venus

Posted on September 25, 2013 by Alex R. Howe

Venus, the nearest planet to Earth, has long been an object of interest in the heavens. It is the brightest point-like object in the sky (for now: it only narrowly edges out the International Space Station), and aside from the … Continue reading →

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In the sky: Nova Delphini 2013

Posted on August 21, 2013 by Alex R. Howe

A rare event is happening this month–one that only happens once every few years–a naked eye nova is visible in the night sky. This is not a supernova, but what is sometimes called a “classical nova”, literally, a “new” star … Continue reading →

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In the sky: the Perseids

Posted on August 10, 2013 by Alex R. Howe

The most reliable and visible of the dozens and dozens of meteor showers that occur over the course of the year is the Perseid shower. The Perseids occur every year in July and August when Earth passes through the tail … Continue reading →

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In the sky: the perigee Moon

Posted on June 20, 2013 by Alex R. Howe

It’s that time of year again. Time for another round of stories to circulate about the alleged “supermoon”–if by “super” you really mean the Moon’s at perigee. Perigee is the point where the Moon is at the closest point in … Continue reading →

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In the sky: Saturn

Posted on June 2, 2013 by Alex R. Howe

Saturn is an old favorite for stargazers. The most distant of the classical planets, and widely regarded as the most majestic, its stately 30-year orbit means that it doesn’t move too much from year to year, making it easier to … Continue reading →

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In the sky: Comet PanSTARRS is here

Posted on March 9, 2013 by Alex R. Howe

The first bright comet of 2013 is entering the northern skies this weekend. Comet C/2011 L4 (PanSTARRS) will be brightest for the next three days or so, rivaling the stars of the Big Dipper. The exact position in the sky … Continue reading →

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In the sky: the Wolf Moon

Posted on December 28, 2012 by Alex R. Howe

Okay, you probably don’t need a stargazing guide to find the Moon. If it’s up, it’s pretty easy to spot, even in the daytime. Tonight, it’s even easier, since it’s a full Moon, specifically, the Wolf Moon, the traditional name … Continue reading →

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